How was a major accident averted in Cooch Behar after an LPG cylinder fire?
Synopsis
On the first day of the secondary examinations in West Bengal, students faced panic when an LPG cylinder caught fire at their school. Thanks to the swift actions of the authorities, a major disaster was averted, allowing students to continue their exams. Read on to learn how quick thinking saved the day!
Key Takeaways
Swift police action prevented a major disaster.
The incident occurred during the Madhyamik examinations .
No injuries were reported due to prompt responses.
Emergency preparedness is essential in schools.
Community support can help ease panic in crises.
Kolkata, Feb 2 (NationPress) Students had a lucky escape from a significant disaster on the inaugural day of the secondary (Madhyamik) examinations in West Bengal, according to police authorities on Monday.
The incident sparked considerable fear at Nakkatigach Higher Secondary School located in the Tufanganj-1 block of Cooch Behar district.
Thanks to the swift response from the police and administrative bodies, there were no reported casualties or injuries.
The secondary school examinations commenced on schedule at Nakkatigach Higher Secondary School earlier that day.
A total of 202 students from Balabhut High School, Balabhut Vidyasagar Vidyapeeth, and Krishnapur School were present for the examination.
During the exam, a gas cylinder ignited unexpectedly while tea was being prepared in the school canteen.
The rapid spread of flames instigated panic across the school grounds.
However, the police officers stationed at the examination center exhibited remarkable bravery and acted quickly.
They managed to pull the blazing cylinder out of the school building and into the open field.
Despite their efforts to extinguish the fire with wet sacks, the situation escalated beyond control.
The Tufanganj fire station was alerted regarding the incident.
Before the fire brigade could arrive, the cylinder detonated with a loud bang, further heightening the students' anxiety.
Startled by the explosion, students abandoned their exams and fled to the school field.
Upon receiving the news, Tufanganj Sub-Divisional Officer Kingshuk Maity, Sub-Divisional Police Officer Kannedhara Manoj Kumar, and other senior police officials promptly arrived at the scene.
After evaluating the situation, they reassured the students.
The acting headmaster of the school, Dulal Basak, informed media representatives, "A significant disaster was averted due to the timely intervention of the police. The explosion took place in an open area, preventing any injuries. Once the situation stabilized, students were able to continue and complete their examinations peacefully."
Parents and school officials expressed relief that a major tragedy was averted, owing to the quick actions of the administration.
Point of View
It's crucial to acknowledge the significant role of quick responses in crisis situations. The effective actions taken by the police and school officials in Cooch Behar exemplify the importance of preparedness in ensuring safety during challenging incidents. This event serves as a reminder for institutions to have emergency protocols in place to safeguard students.
NationPress
2 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the fire at Nakkatigach Higher Secondary School?
The fire broke out when a gas cylinder ignited unexpectedly while tea was being prepared in the school canteen.
Were there any injuries reported from the incident?
No, thanks to the prompt action of the police and administration, there were no injuries or casualties reported.
How many students were taking the exam at the time?
A total of 202 students from three different schools were present for the examination.
What actions did the police take during the incident?
The police officers quickly removed the burning cylinder from the school building to an open area and attempted to extinguish the fire.
How did the school officials respond after the situation was under control?
School officials reassured the students and allowed them to calmly complete their examinations once the situation stabilized.
